Badgers Pattison the true meaning of a student-athlete
Brock University men's hockey player Steve Pattison of Red Deer, Alta. has been able to excel in both athletics and academics since coming to Brock in the fall of 2007.
"Steve has shown that it is possible to be not only an elite athlete but an elite student as well," said Brock Director of Athletics Dr. Lorne Adams. "His accomplishments academically and athletically are worthy of emulation by all student-athletes. I am confident he will be as highly successful in his chosen field as he has been here at Brock."
Just three short years later, the three-time Academic All-Canadian, OUA Academic All-Star and President's Award winner is graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Biology. Pattison will graduate a year early and will continue his academic studies in the field of medicine.
“I am not sure exactly what area of medicine I will pursue,” said Pattison. “I will write both my MCAT and DAT and apply to both medical and dentistry schools. At this time I have not made up my mind as to which stream of medicine I would like to have a career in.”
Throughout his university career Pattison has held onto a full course load while excelling in the classroom holding an 88 percent average. On the ice in 2009, he also had his best season of his university career registering five points including four goals and one assists in 28 regular season games.
For his athletic and academic excellence, he became the second consecutive Brock men’s hockey player to receive the prestigious R.M. Davis Surgite Award at the Annual Athletic Awards Dinner.
“It was an honour to be recognized by the Brock University Athletic community,” said Pattison. “I never expected to be in a position to win this prestigious award. Winning this award will be something I will never forget.”
When asked about how he has been able to excel Pattison said, “the way I look at school and the work involved is to treat it like a job. As a student or an individual in the workforce you are rewarded for the amount of work that you put forth. By working to the best of my ability and using all of my resources I have been able to excel in the classroom.”
“Steve's academic and athletic success is a great example of commitment, determination and consistent, reliable performance,” said Brock men’s hockey head coach Murray Nystrom. “I know Steve will apply these same principles in his life as a university graduate.”
For the past three seasons, the Badgers men’s hockey team has had the strongest academic team among the 24-sport program at Brock averaging eight CIS Academic All-Canadians per year.
“As a coach we have been able to bring in players that are key role models and mentors in the hockey community and want to excel as an athlete, a student and as an individual,” explained Nystrom. “I believe when student-athletes come to Brock they have the opportunity to get a unique University experience.”
“We have had many players go on to pursue their dreams of playing professional hockey as well as many great players and individuals go on to be strong leaders and professionals in their everyday life."
Pattison followed in his father’s footsteps becoming the second member of his family to play Canadian University hockey. His father Phil played hockey at the University of Toronto from 1976-80 as well as suiting up for the Varsity Blues football team for one season.
“My parents are definitely my role models in life,” said Pattison. “Growing up my mom and dad were always around to help me not only on a hockey rink but also with anything else such as school. One of my life goals is to be able to give my family the same treatment that I was so privileged to have.
When looking back at his hockey career Pattison had many years of great memories that he will cherish forever as he begins a new chapter of his life.
Pattison’s three seasons with the Badgers was highlighted by the program’s first trip to the CIS National Championships in Moncton during his rookie season in March of 2008.
“My experience at Brock has been an amazing one. Being named an Academic All-Canadian and going to the national championship in 2007-08 would be my educational and athletic highlights.”
Pattison who has also been involved in teaching youth the game of hockey had some advice to young players about the importance of getting an education.
“Hockey is not forever,” said Pattison. “Eventually all professional hockey players end up having a job that does not involve playing The importance of gaining an education while still being able to play at your best is of utmost importance. Having an education is something that cannot be taken away from you and will always outlast hockey."
